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Staying Involved

Are you sending your first child to college? If so, you may feel a little lost or overwhelmed about what could happen. Even if you've done this before, you might have some concerns. As a parent or guardian, it's tough, but important, to let go and allow your student to make his or her way in the world – even to make mistakes and learn from them.

Here are some ideas about how you can be involved in your student's educational experiences.

Ask what your student likes or dislikes about college courses and studying. Ask how his/her ideas for the future are changing.

Attend campus events when you're invited. We especially hope to see you on Family Day in September, when departments are open and faculty can visit with you.

Allow your student to choose courses, decide how to spend time, and learn to study. Don't expect perfection!

Encourage your student to visit the Latino or Black Cultural Center; to study abroad, to participate in a service-learning project; or to attend social events, lectures, or concerts outside his/her normal interests. A college campus provides students a safe way to step outside comfort zones and interact with other cultures and ideas. College can be a mind-opening experience!

Resist the urge to be in touch daily. Allow your student to initiate the contact and trust that things are going well.